Not using a thermometer to check that meats are cooked or not using it properly. Insert the thermometer into the center of the thickest part of meat. People, these cost less than $10 – Isn’t your health worth it?

Using the same plate to hold raw and cooked meats. An easy fix is to simply place raw meats on sheet of wax paper when carrying out to the grill.

Setting out picnic or potluck foods early. Bring cold foods in a cooler (of course) and don’t put out until ready to serve. Another option is to put the serving bowl of pasta salad in a bowl with ice, or invest in dual layer bowls that can keep in freezer until ready to use. These cost about $20 but are a good investment. I see more attention paid to keeping beverages cold than to food – and it is unlikely a warm soda will make you sick!

Foods left uncovered – I don’t like flies to sample the picnic before I do! Keep foods covered. This keeps out other contaminants as well.

Lack of hand hygiene – and then using hands to touch foods others will eat! Bring extra serving utensils and hand wipes (not a substitute for handwashing but better than nothing!)

A little preventative action will keep you and your grill time buddies safe!
Cost – Less than $50 for many summers of fun. Value of not having a food borne illness – priceless!